LTFRB-7 reminds PUJ operators to secure new fare matrix

Only very few PUJ operators in Cebu and Bohol provinces have secured copies of the new matrix from the Land Transportation Franchise and Regulatory Board in Central Visayas (LTFRB-7).  /CDN File Photo

CEBU CITY, Philippines – Operators of at least 200 public utility jeepneys in Cebu and Bohol provinces have so far secured copies of the new fare matrix from the Land Transportation Franchise and Regulatory Board in Central Visayas (LTFRB-7).

But none of the PUJ drivers here have started to collect the approved fare hike of P8 for the first five kilometers of travel.

Eduardo Montealto Jr., LTFRB-7 director , said that drivers could already start to collect the P8 minimum fare as soon as they are able to post copies of the new fare matrix on their units.

Read More:PUJ drivers told to post copy of new matrix prior to collection of P8 minimum fare

LTFRB-7 started the distribution of new fare matrixes on Wednesday. Operators can secure a copy of the new fare matrix after payment of P50.

“Most of the jeepney operators who claimed a new fare matrix came from Cebu and Bohol,”  Montealto said.

There are around 11,000 registered PUJs in Central Visayas, but the majority of which are yet to secure a copy of the new fare matrix from LTFRB-7.

Read More:LTFRB approves PUJ fare increase

The LTFRB head office approved on April 24 a P1.50 provisional increase in the minimum fare for PUJs in Central Visayas. From P6.50, minimum fare was incresed to P8.

“As of the moment, we haven’t received any complaints yet from the commuters against jeepney drivers collecting the new fare even if they have not yet secured a copy of the new fare matrix,” Montealto said.

Montealto is asking commuters to immediately report abusive drivers to their office for the implementation of the P5, 000 fine.

“Just get the unit’s plate number, the time, date and place when the incident happened,” he said. /dcb